Dream becomes reality for Henry as he's handed big Saints promotion

Henry has been promoted from his previous role as forwards transition coach as he takes over the defence coach position from Lee Radford, who has joined Scotland on a full-time basis.

Radford has left big boots to fill as he helped Saints to win two Gallagher PREM titles during his three years at the club, and they also reached an Investec Champions Cup final in that time.

But Saints feel Henry has the attributes required to step up, having cut his teeth in CHAMP Rugby with Bedford Blues and in his former role at Franklin's Gardens.

And the man himself couldn't be happier to have seen his hard work pay off in the form of a big promotion.

“I’m delighted to have this opportunity at Saints,” said Henry. “This is a prestigious club with an outstanding coaching group and an incredibly talented playing squad.

“It’s a role I’ve been working towards over the last few seasons.

"I’ve been fortunate to work closely alongside Radders (Lee Radford) and take on defensive responsibilities with Bedford as well, which has been invaluable experience.

"This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and I’m excited to get started.”

Henry progressed through the same Leicester Tigers Academy cohort as Saints head coach Sam Vesty, before enjoying playing spells with Nottingham and then Loughborough, where he took his first steps into coaching.

He joined Saints as forwards transition coach ahead of the 2022/23 campaign and during his time at Franklin’s Gardens he has worked closely with the club’s hookers and lineout operation, while also taking responsibility for the breakdown.

More recently, he has led Saints’ defensive programme during PREM Rugby Cup campaigns.

As part of Northampton’s strategic partnership with Bedford, Henry has also fulfilled the role of defence coach for Mike Rayer’s side, who reached the CHAMP final last term, as well as coaching the forwards, specifically the scrum.

Henry’s appointment continues Saints’ strong track record of developing coaches through their pathway system, with Henry following a similar progression to James Craig, who also advanced from the Academy and transition environment into a first-team role in 2022.

“It’s fantastic to be part of the coaching team at Saints," Henry said. "The group is full of talented coaches, but just as importantly they’re great people to work with.

“We challenge each other every day, constantly looking for ways to improve and make sure we stay at the top of our game, while maintaining an environment that is enjoyable and collaborative.

“We all work closely together and there is a real openness to sharing ideas and learning from one another. I’ve worked particularly closely with Radders over the last three years, and that partnership has been hugely beneficial for both of us. Because of that, the transition into this role feels very natural.

"I have a strong understanding of the defensive systems and principles that have served us well over the last few seasons, and I’m looking forward to building on that foundation.”